Teaching African philosophy alongside Western philosophy: Some advice about topics and texts

Abstract

In this article, I offer concrete suggestions about which topics, texts, positions, arguments and authors from the African philosophical tradition one could usefully put into conversation with ones from the Western, especially the Anglo-American. In particular, I focus on materials that would make for revealing and productive contrasts between the two traditions. My aim is not to argue that one should teach by creating critical dialogue between African and Western philosophies, but rather is to provide strategic advice, supposing that is a sensible goal to adopt.

Why the ‘Politics’ against African Philosophy should be Discontinued

“…Such a curriculum 62 See UNESCO, 2007, p. ix. 63 In relation to teaching African philosophy alongside Western philosophy, Metz provides some advice on texts and topics in different branches of philosophy in Metz, 2016b. can undermine PAAP by developing a culture of philosophy education that accommodates as many epistemic perspectives as possible. It is in this connection that the conversational tradition we propose agrees with the view that philosophy is a school of freedom.…”

“… 63 In relation to teaching African philosophy alongside Western philosophy, Metz provides some advice on texts and topics in different branches of philosophy in Metz, 2016b.…”

African Philosophy and the Challenge from Hegemonic Philosophy

“…In this connection, African philosophy has received some renewed attention (Chemhuru 2016;Chimakonam 2016;Etieyibo 2016a;2016b;Metz 2016;Mungwini, 2016;Mweshi 2016;Okeja 2012;Ramose 2016;Sesanti 2016). The main focus has been on the necessity of incorporating African philosophy in the official educational curriculum.…”